A Long-Hidden Mural by the Pop Art Pioneer Eduardo Paolozzi Is Uncovered in Berlin

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A vibrant mural by the British Pop Art pioneer Eduardo Paolozzi on the side of a Berlin building has been recently revealed by demolition work.

Paolozzi (1924-2005) completed the mural, the artist’s largest public work, in 1976 on the side of a building near Zoo Station in what was then the center of West Berlin. But it became hidden when a large bank was built next door in the 1980s.

For years the “lost” mural could only be seen from certain windows within the bank building but now it has been demolished Paolozzi’s black-and-white composition measuring more than 10,000 square feet has been revealed again. Its future is uncertain, however, as there are already plans for a new building underway.

A major survey of the artist’s work, “Lots of Pictures – Lots of Fun,” is on view at the Berlinische Gallery in Berlin until May 28. It is the first monographic exhibition to be devoted to Paolozzi in Germany in more than 30 years and focuses on his output from between the 1940s and 1970s, including this decisive period he spent in Berlin in 1974, around the time this mural was created.

The Scottish-born sculptor and printmaker is best known known for his vibrant and futuristic works and is widely regarded as one of the founders of the British Pop Art movement. He taught at various times in Hamburg, Cologne and Munich as well as the Royal College of Art in London.